Who should not get Emsculpt NEO? Emsculpt NEO is a non-surgical body contouring treatment that combines radiofrequency heat and electromagnetic muscle stimulation to reduce fat and build muscle. It is not right for everyone. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a pacemaker or other implanted electronic device, have metal implants in or near the treatment area, have certain heart conditions, have cancer, or have a fever or open wounds should not be treated. It is also designed for people who are already close to a healthy weight, not as a replacement for weight loss. At Urgent Care & Family Medicine in Conway, SC, every Emsculpt NEO consultation includes a health screening to make sure the treatment is safe for you.
Curious whether Emsculpt NEO is right for you? Call our Conway clinic to schedule a consultation.
What Is Emsculpt NEO?
Emsculpt NEO is a non-invasive treatment for body shaping. During each session, the device does two things at once. Radiofrequency energy heats the fat layer to a temperature that damages fat cells, which the body then clears gradually over the following weeks. At the same time, high-intensity electromagnetic energy causes strong muscle contractions, far more than you could do on your own in the same time, which helps build and tone muscle.
Treatments are commonly done on the abdomen, buttocks, arms, calves, and thighs. A typical course is four sessions, about a week apart, with each session lasting around 30 minutes. There is no surgery, no needles, and no downtime for most people. Learn more on our Emsculpt NEO page.
Is Emsculpt NEO a Weight Loss Treatment?
No. This is one of the most important things to understand before you book. Emsculpt NEO is a body contouring treatment, not a weight loss program. It does not involve prescription medicine, and it is not designed to help people lose a large amount of weight. It is cleared for use in people with a body mass index (BMI) of up to 35.
Many people searching for medically supervised weight loss options are really looking for a way to lose stubborn fat and look more toned in specific areas. If that describes you, and you are already within or near a healthy weight range, Emsculpt NEO may be a good fit. If your main goal is significant weight loss, your provider can talk with you about other approaches and which care team is best suited to help, then discuss whether Emsculpt NEO makes sense later for shaping and toning.
Who Should Not Get Emsculpt NEO?
According to the manufacturer’s safety guidance, people with the following conditions are generally not candidates for treatment, or need specific clearance first:
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Pacemakers, defibrillators, neurostimulators, or other implanted electronic devices
- Metal implants in or near the treatment area, such as plates, screws, or joint replacements. Some IUDs, especially copper IUDs, may be a concern for abdominal treatment.
- Heart disorders
- Current or recent cancer or a tumor in the treatment area
- Fever or active infection
- Bleeding disorders
- Pulmonary insufficiency or serious lung disease
- Recent surgery in the treatment area, or areas that are not fully healed
- Injured, broken, or irritated skin in the treatment area
- A BMI above 35
- Areas with a hernia, such as an umbilical hernia when treating the abdomen
- Reduced sensation to heat in the treatment area
This list is not complete. Your provider will review your full health history, medicines, and implants before treatment.
Have a health condition and want to know if you qualify? Call 843-347-2121 to ask.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Emsculpt NEO?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Are generally healthy
- Have a BMI of 35 or below
- Have stubborn fat in areas like the belly or buttocks that has not responded to diet and exercise
- Want to improve muscle tone and definition
- Prefer a non-surgical option without downtime
- Have realistic expectations about gradual results
- Are committed to keeping up healthy habits after treatment
Some people also consider Emsculpt NEO after pregnancy, once they are finished breastfeeding and have been cleared by their provider, to help with abdominal tone.
What Happens at an Emsculpt NEO Consultation?
During your consultation, a member of our team will ask about your goals and review your health history, including any implants, heart conditions, recent surgeries, and medicines. They will look at the area you want to treat and explain what results are realistic for you. If anything in your history raises a question about safety, we may ask for more information or recommend you check with your specialist before moving forward. You will also learn about the number of sessions, timing, and pricing.
What Are the Possible Side Effects?
Emsculpt NEO is generally well tolerated. Common, temporary effects include:
- Muscle soreness, similar to after a hard workout
- Warmth or redness in the treated area
- Mild tenderness
Less commonly, people may experience skin irritation or discomfort. Tell your provider right away if anything feels too hot or painful during a session, since settings can be adjusted.
When Will You See Results?
Results build gradually. Some people notice firmer muscles within a few weeks, with fat reduction and muscle changes continuing to improve for about three months after the final session. Results vary from person to person. Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise helps you keep your results. Read more about Emsculpt NEO results.
Why Choose Urgent Care & Family Medicine in Conway?
Because Emsculpt NEO is offered in a medical clinic, your consultation includes a careful health screening, and your full health history can be considered. Our clinic at 235 Singleton Ridge Road is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. See our full list of services.
What If You Are Not Sure About an Implant?
Many people do not remember every detail of past surgeries or devices. If you have had orthopedic surgery, a hernia repair with mesh, a cardiac procedure, or any implanted device, bring whatever records you have to your consultation. Your device card, surgical notes, or a quick call to your surgeon’s office can usually answer the question. Breast implants and dental work are generally not in common treatment areas, but mention them anyway so your provider has the full picture. When in doubt, we would rather pause and confirm than treat someone who is not a safe candidate. Being thorough upfront protects your health and helps you get the best possible result.
How Should You Prepare for Treatment?
Once you are cleared for treatment, preparation is simple. Wear comfortable, loose clothing and remove metal jewelry and electronics such as phones and smart watches before your session. Drinking plenty of water before and after treatment can help with muscle recovery. Avoid scheduling a session when you have a fever or feel unwell. If anything about your health changes between sessions, such as a new pregnancy, a new medicine, or an upcoming surgery, let us know before your next appointment.
How Do Healthy Habits Affect Results?
Emsculpt NEO works best as part of a healthy lifestyle, not as a substitute for one. Regular exercise helps maintain the muscle you build, and balanced eating helps keep fat from returning to treated areas. Staying hydrated, getting enough protein, and sleeping well all support muscle recovery. Our providers can also help with related health goals, such as checking your blood work or managing blood pressure, during a separate family medicine visit.
Our goal is simple: to help you reach your body goals safely. If Emsculpt NEO is not the right fit today, we will tell you honestly and help you explore other options that make sense for your health.
Find out if Emsculpt NEO is a safe fit for you. Call our Conway clinic or request a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get Emsculpt NEO if I have a pacemaker?
No. People with pacemakers, defibrillators, or other implanted electronic devices should not be treated with Emsculpt NEO.
Can I get Emsculpt NEO with an IUD?
It depends on the type and the treatment area. Copper IUDs may be a concern for abdominal treatment. Discuss your IUD with your provider during the consultation.
Is Emsculpt NEO safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
No. Emsculpt NEO should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Is Emsculpt NEO a weight loss treatment?
No. Emsculpt NEO is a non-surgical body contouring treatment that reduces fat and builds muscle in targeted areas. It is cleared for people with a BMI up to 35.
Do I need a consultation before treatment?
Yes. Every patient has a consultation and health screening to make sure the treatment is safe and a good fit.